Overview
Cynara cardunculus scolymus is a columnar upright perennial in the genus Cynara, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Cynara cardunculus scolymus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and 6.5-7.5 pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include edible garden and vegetable garden. It is native to Mediterranean region.
About
The cardoon, also called the artichoke thistle, is a thistle in the family Asteraceae. It is a naturally occurring species that also has many cultivated forms, including the globe artichoke.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cardoon
About the genus
Cynara is a genus of thistle-like perennial plants in the family Asteraceae. They are native to the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, northwestern Africa, and the Canary Islands. The genus name comes from the Greek kynara, which means "artichoke".
Wikipedia contributors, "Cynara", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cynara
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cynara
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- 6.5-7.5
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Cynara cardunculus scolymus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Edible garden, Vegetable garden
- Native to
- Mediterranean region
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cynara cardunculus scolymus
- Cultivation
- Prefers fertile, well-drained soil; requires regular watering; mulch to retain moisture
- Pruning
- Remove old flower heads and dead leaves to encourage new growth
- Propagation
- Division, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails, Blackfly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cynara cardunculus scolymus?
Prefers fertile, well-drained soil; requires regular watering; mulch to retain moisture.
Where is the best place to plant Cynara cardunculus scolymus?
Cynara cardunculus scolymus prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Cynara cardunculus scolymus need?
Cynara cardunculus scolymus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers 6.5-7.5 soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Cynara cardunculus scolymus?
Remove old flower heads and dead leaves to encourage new growth.
How big does Cynara cardunculus scolymus grow?
Cynara cardunculus scolymus reaches a height of 2.0 m.
Is Cynara cardunculus scolymus hardy in the UK?
Cynara cardunculus scolymus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Cynara cardunculus scolymus?
Division, Seed.
